OMSI presents Science Pub Portland: Getting to Know the Bees in Your Backyard on Tuesday, 17 May 2016 at the Empirical Theater at OMSI (1945 SE Water Ave.).

Bees are arguably one of the most important insect groups on the planet. Despite their importance, bees are remarkably misunderstood by most people. For example, it is commonly thought that the U.S. and Canada are home to just a handful of bumble bees, sweat bees, and honey bees. In fact there are over 4,000 species. Many people list ‘hives’ ‘stings’ and ‘colony collapse disorder’ among ‘facts’ about bees. The truth is infinitely more fascinating than this simple list suggests, filled with the same twists and turns, complexities, horrors, and delights that an hour long television show provides each evening. This talk aims to dispel the common myths of bees, and will provide engaging accounts of the bees encountered in this region of the world, with clues for telling these stunning creatures apart.

The presenter is Joe Wilson, assistant professor of biology at Utah State University – Tooele (USU).

The Portland Science Pub takes place monthly at the Empirical Theater at OMSI. Check in at the theater entrance to reserve your seat (doors open at 5 PM) – there’s a $5 suggested admission. Food – which you’re welcome to bring into the theater for the show – in available at the restaurant Theory or the Empirical Café. Theory serves wood fire pizza, salads and salt & straw ice cream.

Parking is free for the event, but OMSI is mere steps away from the Tilikum Crossing buses, streetcar, and MAX; and only a few blocks from the Hawthorne Bridge’s multiple bus lines.